For a simply supported beam in a single span, the maximum displacement and the maximum normal stress occur at the center of the beam.

The tabulated data listed in this page are calculated based on the area moment of inertia (Ixx = 984 in4) for the W18 × 60 Wide Flange Steel I Beam and the typical Young's modulus (E = 3.046 × 107 psi) of steels. Note that the typical yielding stress of steels can range from 1.015 × 104 to 2.970 × 105 psi. The purpose of this page is to give a rough estimation of the load-bearing capacity of this particular beam, rather than a guideline for designing actual building structures. Please check your local building codes for regulatory requirements.

Note: The weight of the beam itself is not included in the calculation.